Networking & Informational Interviewing.
Networking involves building and maintaining professional relationships with individuals and groups who can help you learn about potential job openings, introduce you to hiring managers, and provide recommendations or referrals. It is also just about talking to people. Networking is one of the most effective ways to find a job, as many job openings are filled through referrals and word-of-mouth. You will need to know this skill since you will have to network during your entire public health career.
Here are some steps to effectively network for a job:
Identify Your Target Audience
Start by identifying the individuals or groups who can help you in your job search. These may include friends and family, current and former colleagues, faculty, alumni, industry associations, and professional organizations.
Craft Your Elevator Pitch
Develop a brief and compelling summary of your skills, experience, and career goals that you can use to introduce yourself. You never know where your next contact will come from.
Attend Networking Events
You can make connections with employers by attending campus events such as employer information sessions, career fairs, and even in classes. Look for networking events in your area. Be prepared to engage in conversations, exchange business cards, and follow up with individuals who seem interested in connecting with you further. Check for upcoming events on Handshake.
Leverage Social Media
Use platforms like LinkedIn to expand your network and connect with professionals in your field. Make sure your profile is up-to-date and professional. LinkedIn lets you research target companies, people, and jobs. It provides a way to help you stay connected with colleagues, and is especially helpful in conducting out-of-state and out-of-country job searches.
Conduct Informational Interviews
Reach out to professionals in your field through your contacts or LinkedIn and ask for informational interviews. These are short meetings where you can learn about their career paths, industry trends, and potential job openings. Be respectful of their time and come prepared with thoughtful questions. Here is an excellent tutorial to get you started. Remember this is a conversation you should be ready to lead.
Follow up
After making a new contact, be sure to follow up with a personalized email or message thanking them for their time and expressing your interest in keeping in touch.
Remember that networking is a long-term investment in your career, and building relationships takes time and effort. However, if you approach it with a genuine interest in learning about others and helping them in return, you will likely find that networking can be a rewarding and effective way to find a job.
